T-forum and t-mag writers,
I’m curious to know if anybody knows anything in regards to IGF-1 and it’s use? Any and all information would be appreciated. Thank you for your efforts pertaining to this matter.
Basically it is a metabolite of GH, it works by maturing satelite cells into muscle cells(among other things), and I’m not sure of it’s utility unless used in conjunction with other drugs such as insulin and steroids.
IGF is not really a metabolite of GH. Many of the effects with regard to anabolism that were originally attributed to GH are actually mediated by IGF. That is GH stimulates the production of IGF which then acts on the muscle cell. GH has some inherent activity on its own, but the effects do not relate to muscle growth.
That being said, the neat thing about IGF is that it not only stimulates muscles cells to hypertrophy through the production of differentially associated products such as contractile protein and skeletal muscle specific enzymes, but can also stimulate satellite cell activation. This is rather unique within the realm of growth factors. Most growth factors do one or the other, either stimulate expression of diffentiation associated products, or stimulate baby muscle cells to multiply. The effects of AAS are most likely mediated through the former. IGF though is quite a potent stimulator of satellite cell activation and proliferation.
Back to GH for a second, GH is not necessary for IGF to be produced, every time you work out, your muscles actually produce IGF themselves to stimulate their own growth (autocrine or paracrine). This is how hyperplasia may take place over time in strength athletes.
I know there has been much success in treatment of wasting disorders (AIDS) with a combination of IGF, AAS, and insulin. I would suspect the insulin is not necessary if you are eating properly, but AAS and IGF likely have a synergistic effect. IGF has gained favor by strength athletes over GH, because IGF is a more potent direct stimulator of muscle growth (skip the middle man). Endurance athletes have typically been sticking with GH.